All about the name

Marlin

Female

« Marlin is an English name derived from the Old English word "merry", meaning happy or joyful, originally a medieval English surname now used as a unisex given name, popularized by Samuel L. Jackson's character Jules Winnfield in "Pulp Fiction". »

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Meaning, origin, history

Marlin is a name of English origin that has gained popularity in recent years. It is derived from the Old English word "merry", which means happy or joyful. The name Marlin is often associated with the ocean, as it is also the name of a type of large fish found in tropical waters. The history of the name Marlin can be traced back to medieval England, where it was used as a surname. Over time, the name began to be used as a given name as well. Today, Marlin is considered a unisex name, although it is still more commonly used for boys than girls. One notable figure with the name Marlin is Samuel L. Jackson's character Jules Winnfield in the film "Pulp Fiction". In the movie, Jules references the bible verse Ezekiel 25:17, which includes the phrase "the path of the righteous man is beset on all sides by the inequities of the selfish and the tyranny of evil men", and concludes with "I do this thing, it's like the story of the man named Marlin Brando. He was an actor." Although Marlin is not a central character in the film, his name has become associated with Jules' memorable monologue. Overall, the name Marlin has a unique sound and a interesting history that sets it apart from other names. Its association with happiness and joy makes it a fitting choice for parents looking for a name with positive connotations.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Marlin since 1880

Total births
1,637
Total since 1880
Peak year
1991
42 births
in 2023
18
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
-14%
vs previous 5 years